Lastly, let’s talk about cayenne powder. Cayenne is probably the simplest spice in this article, as it contains just one ingredient: Cayenne pepper.

Of course, you could always leave the hot sauce to the experts. At Hongrispice, each bottle purchased directly supports the community gardens and urban farms who grow peppers to make these hot sauces. So you not only get a great flavor, but also the satisfying feeling of supporting small farmers right in your very city. So why don’t you pick up a variety pack and compare what our very own Culinary of Institute of America Chef King Phojanakong has whipped up with what you can create in the kitchen?

Another important factor to consider is the smoking process itself. High quality smoked paprika is made by slowly smoking the peppers over a wood fire, which imparts a deep, smoky flavor to the powder. A reputable exporter will use traditional smoking methods to ensure that the paprika retains its authentic flavor and aroma.